Chaplain (Suffern)

The Chaplain is a pastoral professional whose primary function is to assess the spiritual needs of a particular situation and to offer appropriate care to the patient, family or staff involved. The Chaplain will minister to persons of varied religious beliefs, ages, and cultures, assisting patients / families / staff in drawing upon their spiritual resources as an important element in the healing and recovery process. They will also participate in the programs and ministries of the Department of Spiritual Care, including the development and leadership of prayer and contemplative services. Specifically, the Chaplain through professional training and certification, assists patients / residents / clients to explore more fully life's events as they relate to their spiritual and emotional well-being.

RESPONSIBILITIES :

• Demonstrates culturally sensitive knowledge and skills necessary to provide spiritual care appropriate to the patients, as well as family members and staff in all units of the hospital regardless of faith tradition.
• Regularly visits with all patients / residents / clients giving priority to those in greatest need.
• Provides overnight on-call : weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
• Functions within the facility's policies and procedures for Spiritual Care.
• Facilitates the celebration of the sacraments.
• Establishes positive working relationships with all members of the health team as well as with the volunteers.
• Carries out the goals of the Spiritual Care Department.
• Supports an interdisciplinary approach to spiritual care.
• Assists Director of Spiritual Care, as requested.
• Participates in programs and administrative activities of the facilities related to spiritual care and pastoral counseling.
• Participates in committees and patient / resident / client conferences to enhance the continuity of care to patients / residents / clients.
• Maintains appropriate documentation.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications / Requirements :

Experience : Two years of professional chaplaincy preferred. Clinical Pastoral Education 4 units required; broad understanding of the Catholic tradition, the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services and Catholic Social Teaching, broad understanding of multi-faith and cultural traditions.

Education : Master's degree in divinity, theology, spirituality, ethics, or related field of ministry required.

Licenses / Certifications : Chaplain certification through APC, SCA, NACC or eligible for certification.